Rhipsalis micrantha f. kirbergii

Cultivated identity and natural range of Rhipsalis micrantha f. kirbergii

The kirbergii name remains in cultivation for material associated with western Ecuador.

Rhipsalis micrantha ranges from Costa Rica through the northern Andes to Peru and grows in wet tropical and montane forest.

Indoor growing guide for Rhipsalis micrantha f. kirbergii

Light and hanging space: Keep the long ribbed stems in bright indirect light with plenty of open space around the hanging growth. A little morning or evening sun is suitable.

Water and room conditions: Mild to warm, stable temperatures and moderate humidity work well. Water after the surface has dried and the pot has become lighter. Water thoroughly and allow the pot to drain fully.

Potting mix: Use a loose bark-based mix with pumice or perlite so water drains readily and air reaches the roots.

Feeding and repotting: Repot when roots become crowded or the mix becomes dense. Feed lightly while new ribbed stems are growing, then reduce feeding when growth slows.

Propagation: Firm, healthy ribbed sections can be used as cuttings. Start them in an airy mix and keep it lightly moist.

Problem signs and solutions for Rhipsalis micrantha f. kirbergii

• The ribs become thin and the stem looks pinched: A pinched look between the ribs often appears when the stems have lost water. If the mix is dry and the pot is light, water thoroughly.
• One rib darkens and softness spreads around the stem: Darkening that spreads from one rib with soft tissue can indicate rot. Use a clean tool to remove every soft or decaying section back to firm healthy tissue and discard the rot. Check the roots and potting mix as well; repot only if the roots are affected or the potting mix stays wet too long or has become dense.
• Cottony white insects collect in the grooves between ribs: The grooves between ribs can hide mealybugs. Isolate the plant, remove visible insects, and use a product labelled for mealybugs on ornamental plants. Follow the label, including any repeat treatment.
• The raised edges become pale and crisp: Pale, crisp edges usually point to excessive direct sun. Filter the light or move the plant back from the window, then reintroduce gentler sun gradually.

Rhipsalis micrantha ssp. kirbergii is non-toxic to cats and dogs

• This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• Its effects on people are unclear, so keep it away from young children who may chew it.
• Eating a large amount can still cause an upset stomach. Seek medical or veterinary advice if symptoms continue.

Rhipsalis micrantha: name and meaning

Rhipsalis comes from Greek rhips, wickerwork or basket weave. Rhipsalis refers to wickerwork and micrantha means small-flowered.

Joseph Gaertner established the genus Rhipsalis in 1788 in De Fructibus et Seminibus Plantarum, volume 1, page 137.

Karl Sigismund Kunth first described it as Cactus micranthus in 1823 in Nova Genera et Species Plantarum, volume 6, page 65. Augustin Pyramus de Candolle later placed it in Rhipsalis as Rhipsalis micrantha in 1828 in Prodromus Systematis Naturalis Regni Vegetabilis, volume 3, page 476.